Commercial Projects

The Owner of DRF DESIGN, David Fleming, has experience leading the design team in all phases of the Basic Services described below. Commercial projects typically require Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing, Structural and/or Civil Engineering services, in addition to Architectural Services. DRF DESIGN has experience on Design-Bid-Build projects as well as projects where a Construction Manager or Developer Manager is leading the project.

Schematic Design Phase

The Architect’s responsibility during the Schematic Design Phase is to effectively illustrate the pros and cons of more than one solution. It is our experience that rushing in to one solution too soon ultimately wastes time and jeopardizes the integrity of the project in the later stages of design, or worse, in the Construction phase. The Owner’s responsibility during Schematic Design is to provide critical feedback which will determine the direction of the project. The final schematic design documents will illustrate the scale and relationship of project components.

Design Development Phase

Once the client approves the schematic design documents, the design development phase begins. This phase is distinguished by an increased focus on details, materials and systems. Interaction with our Consulting Engineers is critical during this phase. Ultimately the Design Development Documents illustrate and describe the refinement of the design of the Project, establishing the scope, relationships, forms, size and appearance of the Project by means of plans, sections and elevations.

Construction Documentation Phase

Once the client approves the design development documents, the Construction Documentation phase begins. This phase is distinguished by detailed specifications for all materials in the project. If there is a General Contractor or Construction Manager involved during this phase, it is important to update the Owner on pricing options before finalizing the documents. Construction Documents” refers to both drawings and specifications that establish in detail the requirements for the construction of the project.

Bidding or Negotiation Phase

The Architect assists the Owner in obtaining bids or negotiated proposals. The Architect assists the Owner in reviewing the bids and awarding and preparing contracts for construction.

Construction Phase – Administration Of The Construction Contract

The Architect advises and consults the Owner during the construction phase. The Architect occasionally visits the site in order to keep the Owner informed of the progress and quality of the Work, including any deficiencies observed. The Architect reviews and takes appropriate action upon Contractor’s submittals, including Shop Drawings, Product Data, and Samples.

We are taking on new projects!

How Is COVID-19 affecting your services?

DRF DESIGN is maintaining a high degree of social distancing

DRF DESIGN is accepting phone calls to discuss new projects. We will provide a free video consultation upon request and are continuing to offer in person meetings with use of a mask and maintaining 6' separation.

Free video consultation upon request

Traditional in person meetings by appointment only, following CDC social distancing standards.

Why Should I Pay More For One Architect Versus Another?

FACT - Architect fees vary due to the types of services delivered

Lowest Costs are simple drawings and services to obtain a building permit